World Lupus Day

May 10 is World Lupus Day. Lupus affects people of all nationalities, races, ethnicities, genders, and ages. Lupus is a chronic, autoimmune disease that can damage any part of the body (skin, joints, and/or organs inside the body).

World Lupus Day serves to call attention to the impact that lupus has on people around the world. The annual observance focuses on the need for improved patient healthcare services, increased research into the causes of and cure for lupus, earlier diagnosis, and treatment of lupus, and better epidemiological data on lupus globally.

Lupus is a health condition that affects the immune system. Usually, the immune system produces antibodies that protect the body from these invaders. Lupus causes the body to secrete auto-antibodies to attack and destroy healthy tissue. These autoantibodies cause inflammation, pain, and damage in various parts of the body.

History

Since 2004, lupus organizations around the globe have conducted activities on May 10 to raise awareness and educate the public about the symptoms and health effects of lupus.